By Hemanath Padubidri
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (RD/CN)
 
Udupi, Aug 21: The 95th birth anniversary of former Karnataka chief minister Devaraj Urs and the inaugural of newly-built Post-Metric Boys Hostel building at Badagubettu, was held on Friday August 20. 

The function was held at Lions Bhavan, Brahmagiri, under the aegis of the district administration, zilla panchayat, backward classes and minority communities department. Zilla panchayat president Gladys D’Almeida inaugurated the hostel on Friday morning. 

 
MLA Raghupati Bhat presided over the programme.
 
Speaking on the occasion, he said that the boy’s hostel has been built at a cost of Rs 94 lac.  “The Government First Grade College and Pre-University College are imparting graded education and students from other districts are keen to pursue studies here besides the local students”, said Bhat.
 
He announced that a proposal has been forwarded to state social welfare minister Narendraswamy to provide a girls’ hostel for the students of backward classes and minority communities.  “Minister Narendraswamy has offered assurances in this regard”, added Bhat.
 
“Post-graduation courses for women hailing from poor families have been introduced in the Women’s College here.  It’s not possible to change the existing situation by mere speeches.  The oppressed in the society have to take the lead in empowering themselves educationally”, he stressed.
 
MLC Kota Srinivas, zilla panchayat member Bhujanga Shetty, zilla panchayat social justice committee president Gerald Fernandes, and zilla panchayat CEO Rajashekar were present on the occasion.
 
Backward classes and minority communities’ department officer Girish welcomed the gathering.